NBA Draft’s Potential Celtics: Kansas C Jeff Withey

As part of WEEI.com’s coverage of the 2013 NBA draft, here is one in a series of profiles of players who could be available to the Celtics when they make their lone selection at No. 16.

JEFF WITHEY

Position: Center

School: Kansas

Age: 23

Height: 7 feet

Weight: 235 pounds

Achievements:All-Big 12 first team (2013), Consensus All-America second team (2013), NABC Defensive Player of the Year (2013), Big 12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player (2013), Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2013, 2012), Big 12 All-Defensive Team (2013, 2012)

Key 2012-13 stats:13.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.9 blocks

What he brings: Offensively, Withey is most effective when working without the ball, and scores most of his points following a pick and roll or a drive from a guard. According to Draft Express’ scouting report, Withey was the top player in college basketball at scoring efficiency in non-post up situations, with a 79 percent field goal percentage around the basket.

On the defensive end, Withey shines as a shot blocker, swatting 4.9 shots per 40 minutes during the 2012-13 season. However, he has to gain some weight and get stronger in preparation for facing up with the big men in the NBA.

Notes: Withey is a former volleyball player, which has helped him with timing his shot blocks. He was originally committed to Louisville, but switched his commitment to Arizona. When he didn’t see any playing time during his freshman season, he transferred to Kansas and took over as a starter once twin brothers Markieff and Marcus Morris left for the NBA.